Good morning, Normal.

Illinois Wesleyan University updated its policies to protect free speech and ensure civil discourse after a complaint of alleged antisemitism was filed with the U.S. Department of Education in March 2024—covering peaceful rallies, posters, and external speakers—and now the student affairs office oversees rule communication.

The town of Normal renamed its Fairview Aquatic Center to Karraker Aquatic Center to honor former Mayor Kent Karraker (in office from 1993 to 2003) who renovated the pool in 1998, with Mayor Chris Koos and Parks and Recreation Director Doug Damery holding a ceremony on May 12.

The aquatic center will open on May 24.

Illinois lawmakers are pushing to end a 40-year ban on building large nuclear reactors after a study warned that the state’s energy supply may not meet demand by 2030.

The bill has strong bipartisan support but remains stalled in the Senate as critics and supporters negotiate concerns about cost, waste, and safety + the long 10- to 15-year building process needed to meet future energy and carbon-free goals.

Normal police are urging drivers to buckle up to avoid tickets—officers plan to enforce seat belt rules during Memorial Day weekend.

The Click It or Ticket campaign will run from May 16 to May 27—authorities say nighttime checks will target unrestrained passengers.

Monarch Butterfly Paint Nite

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Cost of supplies included — Unleash your inner artist while enjoying pizza and drinks in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

Family Paint Party

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — Cost of participation — Enjoy a fun-filled evening of creativity with guided painting and delicious food.

Paint Nite: Moonshine Mountains

6:30-8:30 p.m. — BloNo Pizza Co. — $45 per person — Unleash your creativity while enjoying pizza and painting your masterpiece.

Tri-Shark Classic Triathlon and Duathlon

1-5 p.m. — 13001 Recreation Area Dr, Hudson, IL — Registration fees apply — Compete in the Bloomington-Normal area's premier sprint triathlon and duathlon on a flat and fast course through Comlara Park.

Tailgates N' Tallboys Country Music Festival

All Day — McLean County Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the joy of country music with live performances and a vibrant atmosphere.